The Cosy Cardi

I love a good cardigan. That isn’t the ‘coolest’ thing to say but I can’t lie; the cosy the cardigan the happier the gal. There’s not a lot that can shield me against the killer winter winds, but cardigans are my best friend when it comes to just that. They’re perfect for layering, perfect for warmth, and perfect to finish an outfit. There are many occasions where I prefer the cardigan to be the staple piece of an outfit, which means little effort for me, but still looking good.

Today’s outfit is a perfect example of me putting very little effort into an outfit but feeling put-together, thanks to a big chunky cardi. It’s very hard for me to create an outfit that’s not all-black, so an extra layer adds a splash (it may not be a bright splash, but still a splash) of colour to the look.

I bought this cardigan from Matalan around three years ago, and it’s still in a better condition that a lot of items in my wardrobe. Matalan is one of those stores that I feel is totally and completely underrated. I don’t shop there as much as I’d like, mainly because #freelancelife and I’m super frugal. However, when I do shop there, I never (ever) leave empty handed. It’s impossible! Even if I haven’t found clothing I love, their home range is one of the best on the high street. Hands down. There are so many different styles, themes and looks to go with, you could decorate an entire room just using products from Matalan.

The store is my go-to when it comes to affordable items, alone with TK Maxx, New Look and ASOS.

The one downside to this cardigan, is that it contains wool. That means it’s incredibly warm, and almost thermal. I can’t run around if I have this on, because I’ll feel like I’m on fire. But for working in the office, where I barely move and spend 90% of my time shivering: it’s perfect.

I really love the colour, because there’s so much that goes with it. I.e. black. Plus a grey hat. The dress I’m wearing today was kindly sent to me by Pretty Little Thing and is just a simple, jersey, t-shirt dress that was desperately needed in my wardrobe. If there’s one thing that my collection of clothing is really lacking, it’s the basics. Vests, leggings, t-shirts, dresses and jeans. I have officially and executively decided to stop buying jumpers in 2017 because I have too many and cannot possibly wear them all.

I’m limiting myself to 2017 because 2018 = new year new me (aka new year, new clothes).

I chose to receive this dress because it looked so easy to style and I knew it could be an easy ‘base’ layer to build on this winter. The dress is a really comfy and stretchy jersey, and actually comes with stripes on the sleeve (but I’m hiding those today) and is pretty lose-fitting which is always a bonus – I hate tight-fitting clothes with a passion.

To finish the outfit, I’m wearing this Michael Kors beanie I bought for an absolute bargain at TK Maxx, only £4! Also from TK Maxx is my slouch backpack, that is one of those items you buy once and never need to buy again. Finally, my trusty faux suede ankle boots from Next that have lasted a total for four years (poor things) and are still worn every other day.